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In baking, applesauce is added for its taste and sweetness. It also makes a delightful addition to cold beverages like smoothies and power bowls. Eat it by itself as a healthy snack, or alongside grilled meat and vegetables for a nutrient-dense meal. Enjoy this delectable sauce in a variety of ways. While many grew up eating unsweetened applesauce as a healthy snack, its variety of roles in kitchen recipes is still being discovered. Applesauce should be refrigerated once opened. Additionally, if you’re used to applesauce with a more complex taste, read the label to see how much sugar or what additives it may contain. When purchasing, make sure to pick out an all-natural, unsweetened one with no more than 2 ingredients. It’s also high in soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol levels, and high in antioxidants, polyphenols, and vitamin C which helps reduce the risk of chronic disease.Ĭanned applesauce brands vary.
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Similar to the health benefits gained from apples, applesauce is packed with goodness. There is a substantial apple flavor, with a hint of sweetness balanced by a light acidity, similar to with pepper jelly. The light sweetness and tartness combined give applesauce its delightful taste. Prior to being put in sterile containers, the ‘sauce is heat sterilized, often through pasteurization, to maintain the quality and safety of the final product. Commercial applesauce only uses apples that meet a specified grade requirement. Citric acid, ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), or lemon juice may also be used to retain the sauce’s yellow color and prevent it from turning brown.Īpplesauce is made from a single or blends of apple varieties, typically cored and peeled or unpeeled before cooking. Some non-apple flavorings that can be added are cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. When the apples cook, they lose some of their natural acidity, so usually flavorings are added to improve the overall taste. Once softened, the fruits are mashed up to a chunky or fine consistency. This way, when you do pick an applesauce substitute from our list below, it will be easier to adjust the ratios of the ingredients.Īpplesauce is generally made by boiling or baking apples with water, apple juice, or cider.
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So first, let’s talk about what applesauce is and how it’s made. There are a host of reasons you might be looking for an alternative to applesauce.
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